Where do we go from here? That’s not just the title of an Olivia song, but a question many LGBT viewers are asking when it comes to the web series they have come to love and know. You can say the phenomenon of these web series began with the adoration and success of Freefall and then later fully catapulted to an entire genre after the runaway success of the first season of Signal 23 TV’s About Him.

Since then LGBT web series number in the dozens, each with their own stories love, tragedy, mayhem, lust, desire, and personal joy. However, in the last couple of years a few fans have become disgruntled with LGBT web series, relegating them to drawn porno scenes. In fact one infamous blogger, Jamari Fox, has likened them to being “just porn with a plot!

Where do we go from here? That’s not just the title of an Olivia song, but a question many LGBT viewers are asking when it comes to the web series they have come to love and know. You can say the phenomenon of these web series began with the adoration and success of Freefall and then later fully catapulted to an entire genre after the runaway success of the first season of Signal 23 TV’sAbout Him.

Since then LGBT web series number in the dozens, each with their own stories love, tragedy, mayhem, lust, desire, and personal joy. However, in the last couple of years a few fans have become disgruntled with LGBT web series, relegating them to drawn porno scenes. In fact one infamous blogger, Jamari Fox, has likened them to being “just porn with a plot!”

via Inside Jamari Fox

a typical signal23 production?
i love a good web series.you know i love good tv.
with the right plot and characters,
it can really pull you in.
that being said,
i have noticed something with 98% of gay web series:

“PORN WITH A PLOT”

i mean,am i lying?i got a dm from foxholer malcolm about this today.
this is what he had to font…

it’s hard to watch a gay web series because you’re so busy jackin off to it.
i’m seeing an abundance of porn stars in them too.can i be honest?
no pun intended.
even tho this is a “tyson plus” production,
and i love everything he does,
i don’t even know what “honest men” is really about.
i tried to get into it,
but all i saw was tripp ali:

it’s hard to watch a gay web series because you’re so busy jackin off to it.
i’m seeing an abundance of porn stars in them too.can i be honest?
no pun intended.
even tho this is a “tyson plus” production,
and i love everything he does,
i don’t even know what “honest men” is really about.
i tried to get into it,
but all i saw was tripp ali:

cont’d next page

We recently came across Jamari’s article after we were informed that it was seemingly bashing our good friend, actor, and Web Star, Tripp Ali; and we have to say Jamari’s assessment of him is rash and harsh. Yes, Tripp has participated in simulated love scenes in his web series, but that should not subtract from the time, love, and effort he puts into his craft of learning his characters–literally breathing life into them! Additionally, adding Tyson Anthony’s Honest Mento the lists of web series that may be sex dominated is wrong. If you ever actually watch the series it actually explores the little known or discussed relationships between gay men and their sons. We all know gay men with biological children, many who have struggled with how to be good fathers and men when society has demonized them simply because of who they love and what they are attracted to.

We definitely believe in presenting both sides of any story and feel that writing off the majority of web series as “porn with a plot” is irresponsible. We know and have worked with a number of gay content creators who have created and are creating some amazing and quality content. Ultimately, however, the audience dictates what is popular, and if the community would like better then they have to support better, or simply not watch at all. Signal 23 TV’s CEO, Henderson Maddox, recently said in an interview on WTTRadio’s Currently Mikey w/ Rocc, that this was all business and he was simply giving the people what they asked for. The choice is yours.

The Web World–Web Stars, actors, directors, and content creators–have their own response to Jamari’s article, that you can catch below:

*** Jamari we definitely welcome you to talk with us and debate this more.***

Alex Jante

What i read i agree with, which is why I,as a creator, decided to drive my own narrative and storylines to disconnect from that and bring stories I’d like to see on those platforms and hope people enjoy it as well without baiting with porn or no substance. I can drive a disease that even makes the main character sexy driven and never expose the audience to anything uncomfortable. I drive for storyline and content , not just scene by scene for the next sexual encounter Which is why i created The Unanointed . Check out all 6 episodes on YouTube now

Tre Floyd, director and creator of “Love, Sex, & Marriage” Web Series and Stage Play

Some shows are overly sexualized but there are still quality gay shows out there that are entertaining without too much nudity. If u take away the sex scenes and the show is no longer entertaining, you may be watchin porn with a plot but hey sex sells.

Henderson Maddox, CEO/owner of Signal 23 TV

“I love to create films, but as a business man I’ve learned to create what the fans want so I can continue to live this dream.. However I have a lot of content that is true art (Deficiency Notice) available on signal23tv.com “

Anthony Bawn, CEO/Owner of Bawn TV

Well I can see their point of view if they have selected the series mentioned within this article however I tend to make sure all sex scene have a purpose to move the story along and done tastefully So everyone has their own methods either you watch or you don’t watch! 🏾

Tyson Anthony, Owner of TysonPlus

cont’d next page…

It depends on what you choose to focus on – I’m aware the sexual aspect brings attention but the art of storytelling matters most. Jamari is my homie and thanks you also Mikey for every review you have ever typed.

King David; actor, Web Star

Point received and point acknowledged from the general scope of what we see often in lgbt web series. However, I must correct the assertion directed toward Tripp Ali. His character (JT) has one of the most fluid storylines of the bunch in relation to his sexuality and how it relates to his scenes. Knowing him personally, I can tell you this is someone who studies their character and becomes them. What I will add from the perspective on an web series actor myself, one who takes my craft as serious as my livelihood, is that we strive to be recognized and appreciated for our Talent. We want to create memorable moments for our viewers to hold onto for years to come. In a new “World of Web Series”, we serve as pioneers. It’s our job to make this industry what we want it to be and that is what people like Tripp Ali, Donta Hensley, Gary Lavard, myself and many others are making it our duty to change, develop and mold.

In closing, are gay web series just porn with a plot? No, gay web series are a true and unique entertainment outlet, one that has been pivotal in the visibility of the straight, gay, bi, and trans black male.

In any film market there will always be those who see profit in saturating and overcompensating with sex and they will sell that… they’re invested in payout, not art. There’s nothing we can do about that.

However, Don’t be so fast to question whether quality art exists in lgbt web. Great art is and will always be harder to find.

Be sure to check out Honest Men starring myself “Kvng David”, Tripp Ali, Donta Hensley & Gary Lavard on www.tysonplus.com Not only is it art but It may even be ahead of its time!

Freshie, director of “BREATHE” web series

It’s crazy that this article came out… because I was just watching a YouTube video on how some HOLLYWOOD producers have switched their leading roles with pornstars to make a more realistic sex scenes in HETEROSEXUAL movies. And that was THEIR decision for THEIR movie(s). Thus proving sexual preference or being of LGBT content has nothing to do with it.

If you don’t like the director and their projects or their style… don’t watch THEM. But don’t classify all “gay webseries” under the same umbrella because not all of them are like that. Period.

Brandon Karson; Web Star, actor

“When I was on the first season of ‘About Him’, I felt like the story line called for a good, passionate sex scene here and there because of the build up of characters. The story followed a young guy in discovery of his sexuality. Naturally, when that happens in anyone’s life, there’s a sexual exploratory journey that happens. Due to the success of the show, every show afterwards followed that same path, hoping for that same amount of success. The problem comes about when the sex overshadows the storytelling, but it’s all because it sells. All in all, it’s up to the community to demand more substance & storytelling in the content that is supposed to tell our narrative in the most authentic way possible.”

My professional advice would be for people to look for quality entertainment that not only has impactful storylines but acting that is just as inspirational as the narrative. In a world full of sex People don’t need more of it! We need stories that are relatable, interesting, and carefully written so that way the viewer can understand the story in its totality! Some of these series do not provide that within their productions. We at Dream House respect art in all of its forms and creativity, however, when it comes to the representation of the LGBT community particularly, there is a stigma that is being created within the community from creators who do not respect the community and all of what it has to offer, we are not just sex!!

Chris June; actor, Web Star

Theres a problem in the creativity department when the narrative of the LGBT experience takes a symptomatic, reactionary approach to deeper causes of sexual promiscuity in the community. The guarantee of monetization has come at a cost that has muddled an opportunity for a broader discussion of the queer experience. Long drawn out sex scenes have capitalized on burgeoning actors and vulnerable populations who could benefit from investment in acting classes between seasons instead of pay bumps for nudity. There’s a clear eager population of LGBT creatives who want to tell their stories but are beholden to quickly written scripts with hot pocket sex scenes. Furthermore, those of whom are shuffled out for fresh faces at the cost of developed story line and talent. My hopes are that the writers and directors will soon put purpose before click bate in a greater effort to legitimize the stories they hope to bring to life. Sadly many are not reflective of the parameters that shape queer lives, but an exploitation of the coping strategies that de-legitimize and off-put a larger conversation. There are great web-series rising up through the ranks though so I’m hopeful they’ll inspire more contemplation and less masturbation.

Rocc

If we want quality content we have to put out a quality product. That means casting real talent and giving an awesome story. What I and many of my colleagues do is not porn, it’s acting. We know what we want to do and we are trying to live our dreams. There are some web series that denote that, but it is reckless and wrong to generalize LGBT web series. Take some responsibility on what you as a consumer choose to watch and support. Honest Men definitely should not be added to the list of web series that are just sex. There is a deep and moving story there as well as some amazing talent.

Web Series are perforating throughout the net and YouTube, and honestly we are excited and even happier to be back watching and reviewing them. There are a host of new web series out, but we had to cover Signal23TV’s newest show, Hurt, starring Lando King and Dyarius Tucker.

Like this:

Web Series are perforating throughout the net and YouTube, and honestly we are excited and even happier to be back watching and reviewing them. There are a host of new web series out, but we had to cover Signal23TV’s newest show, Hurt, starring Lando King and Dyarius Tucker.

Hurt centers on Genesis (Lando King), a seemingly well to do guy looking for love in all the wrong places and with the wrong people. The first episode begins with a love scene that would make sinners blush! Later, we learn Genesis recently broke up with his “fuckboy” boyfriend, Junior (Dyarius Tucker), who is determined not to let him go by any means necessary. Genesis must make some tough decisions to secure his safety and sanity as he realizes the old saying, “Hurt people, hurt people.”

Lando King & Dyarius Tucker in Signal 23 Tv’s “Hurt” Series

We are really excited about this series as it marks the first time we have seen Lando King headlining his own series. Before he has always been in a more supporting role. The Web Star tells us the series is very relatable and promises it will keep you wanting more and more. We can definitely vouch for this, as we are already anxious to see what the next episode in the series holds for us.

Dyarius Tucker

As aforementioned Dyarius Tucker co-stars in the series as well, and his character is all too familiar with anyone who has ever dated someone they know they should never have entertained. Tucker is a good actor, and this may be the start of a legitimate acting career for him.

Hurt definitely tackles issues of domestic violence, insecurity, and mental health as Genesis comes to terms with all of his life choices and we are here for it! It can’t always be sex and fluff material in the Web World (sips tea). Kudos to the folks at Signal23TV, this one is a keeper! You can catch Hurt by clicking here and subscribing to the network’s Vimeo channel. Happy viewing!

*Tune in tonight to WTTRadio’s The Hey Mikey Show to catch exclusive interviews with Lando King and Dyarius Tucker! We love you for listening!

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[TRAILER] #Winning! Gemini Filmz’ (@GeminiFilmz) “The Come Up New York Returns w/ New Season & Record Breaking Numbers!

In case you did not know, reality series are not just for television anymore, as YouTube and other streaming media are seeing the rise of Web Reality Series on a daily basis. One of the most popular of these series is none other than Gemini Filmz’ The Come Up New York. The hit series has not only spawned a spin off in the Come Up ATL, but has returned with a second season and a trailer that has already broken records across various social media platforms with a combined number 48,703 views in less than 24 hours! This makes their director, Karon Wilson, the first LGBT director to do so!

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In case you did not know, reality series are not just for television anymore, as YouTube and other streaming media are seeing the rise of Web Reality Series on a daily basis. One of the most popular of these series is none other than Gemini Filmz’ The Come Up New York. The hit series has not only spawned a spin off in the Come Up ATL, but has returned with a second season and a trailer that has already broken records across various social media platforms with a combined number 48,703 views in less than 24 hours! This makes their director, Karon Wilson, the first LGBT director to do so!

Gemini Filmz really continues to push the envelope with The Come Up New York and we have to say we are impressed. We also have to admit we were late to the party, not really knowing about the series or its Atlanta spinoff until our very own Michael “Hey Mikey” Fanning made an appearance there, and Atlanta-based Web Star, Rocc Sherrill, was one of the cast members. However, when it comes to The Come Up New York this is the source material where the fun, drama, and sometimes mayhem came to fruition. Check out the super trailer above!

Season 2 is going to be nothing short of lit! Of course we love the drama and craziness, it is inevitable with this merry group of New York “kidz.” More importantly we love that the show will be tackling more serious like depression, transphobia, and coming out. It only makes the show, and the cast members, more relatable in our opinion.

You all just be sure to catch Season 2 of Gemini Filmz’ The Come Up New York because we sure as hell will be with our popcorn, wine, and a group of our “A1s from day 1!” Congratulations again Karon!

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We have to admit these web reality series are amusing. There are a few that have definitely come up on radar in the last year–Chasing Atlanta, The Come Up ATL, and The G-Status ATL Hustle! The first and latter, however, seem ready to collide after an interview on our very own Michael “Hey Mikey” Fanning’s popular radio show, The Hey Mikey Show. Last night’s show centered on the cast of The G-Status ATL Hustle as they built up to their series premiere set to air tonight on YouTube. However, a few comments made by series creator and director, Jah Jah Katai, seem to have been perceived as shady by a few Chasing Atlanta cast members.

Like this:

We have to admit these web reality series are amusing. There are a few that have definitely come up on radar in the last year–Chasing Atlanta, The Come Up ATL, and The G-Status ATL Hustle! The first and latter, however, seem ready to collide after an interview on our very own Michael “Hey Mikey” Fanning’s popular radio show, The Hey Mikey Show. Last night’s show centered on the cast of The G-Status ATL Hustleas they built up to their series premiere set to air tonight on YouTube. However, a few comments made by series creator and director, Jah Jah Kitaii, seem to have been perceived as shady by a few Chasing Atlanta cast members.

Jah Jah Kitaii, creator and director of “G-Status ATL Hustle”

These aforementioned comments took place on cast member, Sherrod Willis’ Instagram Live feed and it seems some the “kidz” aren’t having it. Check out Jah Jah’s comments below (Swipe left) and a few comments from left on the post:

mzryanmarie@milanjadda first of all I’m not trying to put anybody against anybody …. I wasn’t the one being shady the people In the video was so i think you need to TRY to check them boo not me .. Im def rooting for everyone and Im gone watch them allll .. but I did say what I said ❤️ it’s def all love

klxtraordinaireThere is no shade being thrown. Some started comparing what we did to other shows. We support the chasing reality brand and other content creators. Some shade was thrown at us about our show when we first put out our teaser but at the end of the day we wanna see everyone win.

Shady? We don’t have an opinion. However, Mikey reached out to Jah earlier today for a statement and he had this to say, “Didn’t say their [Chasing Atlanta] name. A hit dog will holler. That’s it from me, but thank you again.”

You can listen to last night’s airing of The Hey Mikey Show by clicking here. All we can say is that we will be tuning into the premiere of The G-Status ATL Hustle where you will see Mikey make a guest appearance and we will be at Truth nightclub tonight for a special screening. If you’re in the metro Atlanta area come out, come dressed, and be prepared to be BLOGGED about!